Expect 'polar opposite,' Staind's Aaron Lewis says

Saturday

Oct 2, 2010 at 12:01 AM

Having written modern rock classics such as "It's Been Awhile," "Outside," "Epiphany" and "So Far Away," Aaron Lewis' approach to the creative process involves something more than just sitting with his guitar and working through musical ideas.

SEAN McCARTHY

Having written modern rock classics such as "It's Been Awhile," "Outside," "Epiphany" and "So Far Away," Aaron Lewis' approach to the creative process involves something more than just sitting with his guitar and working through musical ideas.

As the chief songwriter for the multi-million-selling band Staind, Lewis' artistic expressions often gel after taking time away from his musical side. An avid outdoorsman, the Springfield resident's interests in non-musical pursuits often result, he says, in a clearing of the mind that allows him to return to his instrument and begin writing new batches of songs.

It is then that he can attempt to confront his greatest songwriting challenge — outdoing himself.

When Lewis takes to the stage of the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center in New Bedford Oct. 10, he will be accompanied by nothing more than his acoustic guitar. He is inviting fans of his band to see him in a special light, performing songs from the Staind catalog as well as solo selections and assorted covers.

Tickets for the event are $48.50, $45.50, and $42.35. The show will begin at 8 p.m.

"When I'm performing solo it couldn't be a more polar opposite from Staind," Lewis says. "I invest a lot more into the delivery of my lyrics in that setting which helps an audience get to see the true me. An audience will feel closer to me in many different ways because I'm sitting there by myself for an hour-and-a-half.

"The approach I take to the lyrics is the same with either band," he says. "If I'm going to have words that are going to be documented forever, I've got to feel like it's a piece of me. With each song I want to be giving a part of myself away. Almost all of my songs are based upon personal experiences."

The acoustic format portrays another dimension of Lewis.

"With acoustic shows, the atmosphere is a lot more lighthearted and loose. I usually don't have a set list and if there is one, it's just a guide to keep me on the train tracks. I say more between songs at a solo show — I can't just sit there and say nothing. With Staind I can get away with that.

"But ultimately, the music speaks for itself."

The music speaks for itself every winter when Lewis stretches his legs with a tour of solo performances. Having the opportunity to change from the rock band setting and take a stripped-down approach to performing is another refreshing experience that helps his approach to creativity. When he returns from a solo tour he is ready to begin working in the electric format again.

Another major contribution to his creativity is a love of being in the outdoors, something that takes him away from the music world. Lewis is a hunter, fisherman, and motorcycle enthusiast, which gives him time to direct his energies on something besides music.

"It definitely helps mentally to get away and be able to cleanse before working on a new batch of songs," he says. "It's good to return and get back with a fresh musical palette. Hunting is a great escape for me."

Staind debuted in 1999 with "Dysfunction," and has gone on to release six full-length records. Staind has been compared to bands in the alternative, metal and post-grunge genres, such as Tool and Korn. Lewis' vocals have been tabbed as reminiscent of Pearl Jam's Eddie Vedder and Layne Staley of Alice In Chains. The band has sold more than 13 million records.

But whether he is playing with Staind or working on his own material, Lewis has the same basic approach to writing songs.

"I come up with the music first, usually when I'm just sitting on my couch and hanging around with the band," he says. "From there they'll put their ideas on top of it. Once the band has laid down all of the music, I'll construct a melody line and once that is established I work on what's going to happen lyrically."

But Lewis provides insight on the attitude that goes into the creative process, whether it's being played solo acoustically or electric with Staind: The goal of always being a better band and writing better songs.

"I always, always, always want to feel like I have to outdo myself as a songwriter," he says. "Any time we go into the studio to record, we're always trying to better the last thing that we did. If you lose the desire to better yourself from your last representation, what are you doing it for?"

Another important form of inspiration for Lewis is the communication he has with his fans.

"With every letter and every message I feel more and more lucky to have the fan base that I have. The way I look at it is if you've made a difference in the time you're here, that's all that really matters. I can honestly and graciously say that I have."

The Zeiterion is at 684 Purchase St., New Bedford. Contact the box office at (508) 994-2900 or visit www.zeiterion.org

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